There are a
variety of potential hazards to human health and safety associated with
oil spill response, including physical
hazards, toxicity, psychological hazards such as burn-out, and zoonoses.

It is important to recognise that any oil spill response operation is a
potentially hazardous working environment. (B363.2.w2)

Stress and fatigue are general hazards of oiled wildlife response. (D183.w8)

Human safety must be the first
priority in oiled wildlife response, with the safety of the oiled
casualty as the next priority. (B335.14.w14,
D9,
D133.2.w2,
D133.3.w3,
D183.w8, J29.8.w1)

It should be remembered, by anyone temped to take risks with their
own safety, that if they are injured or incapacitated then resources
will have to be diverted to assist them and that such incidents may
lead to further rescue efforts being stopped. (D137)

Personnel should also be reminded that if they are ill or injured
then they will not be able to care for the wildlife which they are
trying to help. (B335.14.w14)

Safety risks can be minimised if all personnel follow instructions,
wear
appropriate safety gear, use common sense and think about what they are doing. (D9)

Human health and safety hazards usually present the greatest risk
during the first phases of wildlife rescue and rehabilitation, such as
collection of oiled casualties. (D135.2.w2)

Risks to human health can be minimised by awareness of potential
hazards, by training, and by the use of
appropriate personal protective equipment.

It is important to ensure that all legal requirements relating to human
health and safety have been met, and that all potential risks have been
identified and appropriate measures taken to minimise those risks. (B363.2.w2)

Individuals working on site must be informed about, and understand, the
health risks associated with both exposure to chemicals and caring for
wild animals. (B363.2.w2,
P24.335.w12)

Good personal hygiene, knowledge of animal handling techniques and
appropriate protective equipment, as well as current tetanus
vaccination, are all important. (P24.335.w12)

Appropriate precautions must be taken to prevent chemical or pathogen
contamination of either staff or volunteers. (B363.2.w2)

For each working area/task of work, risk assessments need to be made
(D183.w8)
and safety protocols should be
developed, written, and displayed in all relevant areas. (B363.2.w2)

Risk assessments should allow development of a site safety plan
covering all parts of the oiled wildlife response site. (D183.w8)

Safety can be maximised by understanding and practicing the
maintenance of safe working conditions and procedures, by
understanding occupational health, understanding the potential hazards
associated with working with oiled wildlife, wearing adequate personal
protective equipment and practicing good general personal hygiene. (D183.w8)

Many of the hazards which must be considered in oiled wildlife
rehabilitation, particularly hazards associated with the working
environment during search and collection operations, are the same as those
which must be considered in general oil spill response and are described
in D181 - Oil
Spill Responder Safety Guide- IPIECA Report Series Volume 11
(Full text provided)

Both staff and volunteers should be made aware, during induction or
training before starting work, of safe work practices, including:

Basic safety equipment (e.g. fire extinguishers) should be available on
site. (B363.2.w2)

Note:

All personnel should have regular rest and meal breaks,
with adequate rest hours between shifts, and adequate days off, weekly. (B363.2.w2)

Pregnant women should not work directly with oiled wildlife due to
potential harmful effects of zoonoses and petroleum hydrocarbons on
the fetus. (B335.14.w14)

Individuals who are immuno-compromised should seek medical advice
before working with animals. (B363.2.w2)

Individuals who are ill or who are on medication which may
negatively affect their natural immunity should not work with oiled
wildlife. (D183.w8)

All personnel must have current tetanus immunisation (within the
last ten years, or as medically advised). (B363.2.w2,
D135.2.w2)

It is important to clarify who is has ultimate responsibility (and
liability) for the operation of a response plan. It is also important
to clarify who is responsible for ensuring adequate insurance cover
for all personnel involved in oiled wildlife response: this may for
example be arranged at the level of wildlife response or be part of
"blanket" cover for the whole oil spill response operation.
(D183.w8)

There are a
number of physical hazards associated with oiled wildlife response. Environmental hazards may arise from the weather, tides, poor light
conditions, rockfalls, the presence of slippery surfaces such as
weed-covered rocks, and quicksands. Additionally, there are hazards
relating to the handling of wildlife casualties.

It is important to watch out and be conscious of potential risks in
order to minimise the chances of slipping, tripping and falling. (D9)

It is important to remember that wildlife casualties are not used to
being handled, are likely to react aggressively to human interference, and
can themselves be hazardous: beaks of birds, teeth
of mammals and claws of both should be treated with respect. Eyes should
always be protected and the handler should remember that wild animals may move powerfully and unexpectedly.
Any cuts and scratches from wild animals may act as a source of infection
and should be treated immediately. (D9,
D183.w8, V.w5)

Hazard reduction:

The risks from physical hazards can be reduced to a large extent by
forethought, training and the correct use of personal protective
equipment.

Use of proper handling techniques with wild animals will minimise the
risks of traumatic injuries to humans from the animals. (P24.327.w4)

Hazards during search &
collection

Hazards which personnel should be aware of include those associated
with the wildlife casualty (its bill, feet, and wings), the environment
(affected by tide, weather, light conditions, also slippery rocks,
possibility of rockfalls and quicksands), and human factors such as
fatigue, wind-chill and hypothermia and sunburn and heat-stroke. (D137)

Personnel should be aware of temperature and weather conditions before
undertaking search and collection, and should wear appropriate clothing
and equipment. (D135.2.w2)

High winds and driving rain, sleet or snow, heavy seas and
high tides are hazards which may arise. Limits (e.g. wind force, tide
levels) may be set on conditions in which attempting wildlife rescue
may be made. (P14.4.w8)

Prevention:
Personnel should be aware of temperature and weather conditions before
undertaking search and collection, and should wear appropriate clothing
and equipment. (D135.2.w2)

The risk of hyperthermia can be minimised by layering clothing and removing layers as
appropriate to prevent overheating, take frequent rest breaks in
hot weather and ensure that you drink sufficient fluids even if
not feeling thirsty. Each person should watch for symptoms in
themselves and in other people. (D9,
D133.3.w3,
D135.2.w2)

Prevention: Personnel should be aware of temperature and weather conditions before
undertaking search and collection, and should wear appropriate clothing
and equipment. (D135.2.w2)

All individuals should wear appropriate warm clothing which will also keep
them dry, carry a flask
containing a warm drink, avoid sitting on cold ground and watch
for symptoms in themselves and other people. (D9,
D133.3.w3,
D135.2.w2,
D137)

Treatment: Get the affected individual out of wind and rain,
warm them up, keep them awake and seek medical attention promptly.
(D9)

Prevention: Minimise the risk of sunburn by wearing a long-sleeved top and long-legged trousers
(pants), also sunscreen and a sunhat as appropriate. (D133.3.w3,
D135.2.w2);
use layered clothing and remove layers as appropriate to avoid
heatstroke. (D137)

Dehydration

Prevention: Take water, or on a cold day a hot drink, to the rescue site.
Drinking water should be readily available. (D133.3.w3)

Supervisors should be aware of this risk and should encourage
personnel to drink sufficiently. (B363.2.w2)

There is also a risk of back injury while lifting heavy animals.
(D183.w8)

Hazards within the Rehabilitation Facility

Dehydration

This risk is increased when working in oiled wildlife
rehabilitation because the environment is generally kept warm or
hot to help affected birds maintain their body temperature. (B363.2.w2)

Prevention:

Do not neglect to drink, particularly in
breaks between washing birds.

Supervisors should be aware of this risk and should encourage
personnel to drink sufficiently. (B363.2.w2)

Personnel working in washrooms are at particular risk and should be given sufficient rest breaks, provided with
plentiful drinks and encouraged to drink adequate quantities, to
prevent exhaustion and dehydration. (B363.10.w10,
D133.6.w6)

Untrained volunteers should not be allowed to handle
casualties. (D183.w8)

Collection of raptors should be undertaken only by
experienced personnel. (D135.2.w2)

Individuals handling potentially dangerous mammals must
be properly trained and supervised, and should not proceed
with any action if they are unsure about the activity they
are performing. (B335.14.w14)

Hold birds at or below waist level, never near anyone's
face. (D135.2.w2)

Oil can be toxic
to humans as well as to animals. There is a danger of both contact
irritation and inhalation of fumes of volatile oil components. (B20.13.w10,
D137, D183.w8,
J29.8.w1, P24.335.w12)

Risks from fumes are greatest early in the spill and
in confined spaces. (D183.w8)

Depending on the petroleum product involved, there may be
large amounts of dangerous volatile compounds such as benzene, toluene,
xylene, hydrogen sulphide or sulphur dioxide. (B20.13.w10)

Other toxic chemicals which may be present include
polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), furans, and heavy metals such as
vanadium and arsenic. (B20.13.w10)

Benzene, toluene, hexane and similar highly toxic
chemicals, being volatile, are most likely to be present in the early
phases of an oil spill. However these compounds may persist in very cold
conditions or if petroleum product become trapped in soil or sediment. (B20.13.w10)

If possible, information about the nature of the oil should be obtained
prior to the oiled wildlife response. (D137)

In most cases by the time oiled wildlife casualties are being
collected, oil will have aged, with many of the volatile components
evaporated. (P14.3.w12)

Volatile components such as benzene may be
retained by "wicking" into bird body feathers. (P14.3.w12)

The main risks associated with aged crude oil are:

Contact dermatitis. Skin irritation due to oil
exposure is seen acutely and disappears over a few days. (P14.3.w12)

Absorption of oil components may be facilitated
across traumatised skin. (P14.3.w12)

Increased risk of skin cancer due to contact with
polyaromatic hydrocarbon compounds. (P14.3.w12)

Eye irritation due to contact of the eyes with oil
droplets. (P14.3.w12)

Some compounds found in petroleum oil may be
absorbed across the cornea. (P14.3.w12)

General signs of petroleum toxicity may include breathing
difficulties, drowsiness, nausea, dizziness, difficulty in
concentrating, weakness, fatigue and lack of energy,
chills and an upset stomach, odours and a strange taste in the mouth,
headache, ringing in the ears and a tight chest. (B363.2.w2,
D9)

Individuals developing such symptoms should
inform their supervisor and leave the area where exposure
occurred. (B335.14.w14)

If symptoms persist past several hours, medical
attention should be sought. (B335.14.w14)

Absorption may occur following direct contact with petroleum
hydrocarbons. (B335.14.w14)

Direct irritation may occur, particularly on sensitive areas
around the eyes, nose and mouth. (B335.14.w14)

Signs of direct irritation may include a
burning sensation/stinging of the eyes or skin, which may be
reddened or sore; (D9,
B363.2.w2)

Puncture wounds may provide a route by which petroleum
hydrocarbons can enter the body. (B335.14.w14)

Exposed areas should be washed immediately with soap and water. (B335.14.w14)

If oil enters an eye, the eye should be flushed for 15 minutes,
the supervisor should be noted and first aid should be sought. (B335.14.w14)

Appropriate gloves and safety
glasses/goggles/face shield should be worn to minimise the risks
of absorbing these chemicals while handling oiled wildlife. (B335.14.w14)

Ingestion of significant quantities of petroleum products is
unlikely. If ingested, nausea, vomiting and dizziness may occur. The
supervisor should be notified and immediate medical attention sought.
Induction of vomiting is contraindicated. (B335.14.w14)

If any of the above are noted:

Move the affected individual into an area of fresh air;

Remove any contaminated clothing and wash any contaminated skin;

Loosen tight clothing;

If the eyes have been splashed, flush these with water and continue
this for 15 minutes

Seek medical advice: on site, locally, or from the appropriate
Information Center.

A protective respirator if volatile components are present. (D135.2.w2)
and cannot be maintained at safe levels by exhaust fans. (P14.3.w12)
self-contained breathing apparatus if levels
of toxic volatiles are high, particularly if working in a confined
area. (B20.13.w10)

Material Safety Data Sheets can provide general information about
different types of oil. These should be made available. (P14.3.w12)

"The Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) for the
product must be consulted and appropriate precautions for the
product followed. Personal protective equipment such as safety goggles,
petroleum impermeable suits and gloves and protective footwear must be
worn." (P24.335.w12)

If possible, independent analysis of the components
present should be carried out by a technical laboratory. (P14.3.w12)

Other hazardous chemicals

There are a variety of other chemical products which are commonly used
in wildlife rehabilitation, including bleach and other disinfectants,
povidone iodine preparations and other antiseptics, solutions for cold
sterilisation, and formalin used as a preservative (e.g. for tissue
samples). (B335.14.w14,
B375.2.w2)

Containers used for storing such chemicals should be labelled with
the details of the product including name, concentration, compounds of
concern, expiration date and safety warnings. (B335.14.w14)

Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) for such products should be
kept in accessible locations both in animal care areas and
administrative offices. (B335.14.w14)

When handling bleach and formalin, gloves and safety glasses should
be worn and skin contact should be avoided. (B335.14.w14)

New personnel should consult their supervisor
regarding safe and effective use of such products. (B335.14.w14)

A variety of
diseases can be caught from oiled wildlife, including viral, bacterial,
fungal and parasitic diseases. Additionally, individuals may develop
allergic reactions.

NOTE: Any individual becoming ill while, or within a few
weeks
of, tending oil contaminated animals, should take care to inform their
medical practitioner about the exposure to wild animals. (B363.2.w2)

Good personal hygiene, good animal handling techniques, appropriate
protective equipment and current tetanus vaccinations are all
important in minimising zoonotic risks. (J29.8.w1,
P24.335.w12)

This disease, which causes severe 'flu-like illness with high fever, headache, debility and shortness of
breath in humans, is
transmitted by inhalation of airborne particles of droppings and other
discharges (oral, ocular) from birds. (B12.22.w13,
B23.22.w5,
B363.2.w2, D48)

Risk of infection is increased in immunocompromised individuals. (P24.334.w4)

Erysipelothrix rhusiopathiae
may be found in the mouth of marine
mammals and birds. Infections in humans, from contamination of bites or
cuts, may be superficial but can cause serious localised bacterial
infection and, if not treated properly, systemic infection.
(B20.13.w10)

Erysipelothrix rhusopathiae is also found in the slime layer
of fish (B363.2.w2)

This organism causes disease in birds and can be transmitted to
humans either by direct contact or by contaminated fomites. (B23.22.w5)

Various bacterial infections may occur associated with exposure of
open wounds to bacteria present on the animals or in the environment.
(D183.w8,
B335.14.w14)

VIRAL INFECTIONS

Avian Influenza

This is a rare zoonosis. Transmitted by aerosol, it can cause
respiratory signs in humans. (B23.22.w5)

Signs in humans vary from mild to severe and fatal pneumonia. (P24.334.w4)

Influenza A viruses are common in birds such as migratory waterfowl.
(P24.327.w4)

During the recent (2003-2004) outbreaks of avian influenza in Asia,
several case of direct transmission of H5N1 avian influenza virus to humans have occurred, and many
such case have been fatal. (J6.33.w1)

This disease must be considered if working with mammals in areas in
which this disease occurs.

In the UK classical rabies is not present however European lyssa virus
2 (EBLV-2) appears to be
present, although to date it has been found only in Daubenton's bats (Myotis
daubentonii- Daubenton's bat). (J3.153.w1)

One bat worker in the UK has died following exposure to EBLV-2
from a Myotis
daubentonii- Daubenton's bat in the UK.

It is recommended that all bat
workers, and those involved with bat rehabilitation, should be properly immunised
(prophylactic vaccination) against rabies. (B284.9.w9)

Some people may develop an allergic dermatitis in response to these
parasites. (P24.327.w4,
P24.334.w4)

Prevention: Normal hygienic practices, such as wearing
gloves, regular changes of clothes, and hand washing, should minimise
the risks of picking up parasites. (B363.2.w2)

ALLERGIC DISEASES

There is a risk of allergic disease during oiled wildlife response. (D183.w8)

Feather Allergies

Humans allergic to bird feather dander or avian faecal material may
develop a clear nasal oculonasal discharge and sneezing; the diagnosis
can be confirmed by skin testing. Symptoms can be treated using
antihistamines. (B23.22.w5)

Coughing, dyspnoea and fever may be seen in the acute form following
exposure to large quantities of allergen, while dry cough and
progressive dyspnoea are seen with the subacute and chronic disease. (B23.22.w5)

The acute form may be seen four to eight hours after the
individual has been exposed to a high level of allergen. (B12.22.w13,
P24.334.w4)

The chronic form is seen following long-term low-dose exposure
to the avian antigens. (B12.22.w13)

Recovery from the acute or subacute forms is usual if contact with the
allergen is prevented, but irreversible pulmonary fibrosis may occur
in chronic disease. (B23.22.w5)

Individuals with this condition should avoid exposure to dust from
dried bird droppings. (P24.327.w4)

Latex and Other Allergies and Reactions

Individuals may develop reactions to materials which are used during
oil spill response such as latex gloves, the powder in gloves, and
disinfectants. (D223,
W599.Nov05.w1,
V.w5, V.w73)

Irritant contact dermatitis. Not strictly an allergic
reaction, this generally manifests as the development of dry,
itchy, irritated areas of skin, usually on the hands. It may
result from contact with latex, powder used in gloves, repeated
hand washing and drying, incomplete hand drying, use of cleansers
and sanitisers etc.

Allergic contact dermatitis (delayed hypersensitivity
reaction/Type IV hypersensitivity reaction). This is seen as a
rash, usually starting 24 to 48 hours after contact with the
sensitising agent (such as chemicals used in the manufacture of
latex gloves) but sometimes starting as soon as six hours after
contact. It may spread and may progress to the development of
oozing blisters on the skin.

Immediate hypersensitivity (Type I hypersensitivity
reaction/latex allergy). Reactions may begin within minutes to
hours after contact. In sensitised individuals, reactions may be
triggered by very low level exposure to natural rubber latex
proteins.

Individuals who are aware they have latex allergy should inform
their employers and healthcare providers about their allergy.
Additionally, it is recommended that they should wear Medic-Alert
bracelet stating that this person has natural latex rubber
allergy. (W599.Nov05.w1,
W599.Nov05.w2)

In the UK, the Health & Safety at Work Act 1974 puts a duty
on employees to take reasonable care for his or her own safety. (W599.Nov05.w2)

In the UK, the Health & Safety at Work Act 1974 puts a
general duty on employers to keep employees and others health and
safe at work and the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health
Regulations 2002 ask employers to undertake an assessment of any
substances used at work and that are hazardous to health - this
includes natural latex rubber. (W599.Nov05.w2)

This assessment should include not wearing gloves where they
are not needed, using other glove materials such as nitrile,
vinyl or synthetic gloves where appropriate, and limiting
exposure to natural latex rubber gloves. HSE's policy is
"Single use, disposable natural rubber latex gloves may be used where a risk assessment has identified them as necessary. When they are used they must be low-protein and
powder-free." (W599.Nov05.w2)

In the USA, recommendations are provided by National Institute
for Occupational Safety and Health (CDC).

Prevention of Zoonotic Disease:

The risks of zoonotic disease can be substantially reduced by the
application of basic sanitary precautions, including ensuring good ventilation and by normal good hygiene
practices. (B363.2.w2,
D9)

Separate clothing should be worn for handling and caring for
wildlife. (B23.22.w5)

Avoid unnecessary close contact with birds, particularly cuddling
and kissing; (P24.327.w4)
and particularly avoid close contact between birds and anyone who may be
immunodeficient or immunocompromised, including children and the
elderly. (P24.327.w4)

Eating, drinking and smoking should not be allowed in animal
handling areas. (B335.14.w14,
D135.2.w2)

Protective equipment should be removed and hands should be
washed thoroughly with soap and water
(or approved cleansers) after working with casualties or cleaning
pens/cages and before eating, drinking or smoking, or handling
food for human consumption,
including at rest breaks as well as at the end of a work shift/after finishing work. (B23.22.w5,
B363.2.w2, D9,
D135.2.w2)

Soap and warm water should be available at all locations
where human food and drink are provided, as well as near
toilets. (B363.2.w2)

If zoonotic disease is suspected then necropsy should be carried
out under a hood, or appropriate personal protective equipment
should be worn, such as a respirator and goggles in addition to
gloves and other protective clothing. (B23.22.w5,)

When birds which appear to be diseased are being handled, appropriate
respiratory protection (surgical mask) should be worn in addition to
other personal protective equipment. (D135.2.w2)

Ventilation should be maintained at an adequate level to prevent
buildup of airborne contaminants. (D135.2.w2)

Minimise production of aerosols and dust and contact with either of
these. (P24.327.w4)

Ensure that the use of appropriate disinfectants and antiseptics
against zoonotic diseases is understood. (P24.327.w4)

Surfaces, including floors, counters etc. should be cleaned and
disinfected frequently. (D135.2.w2)

Equipment used in food preparation should be cleaned and
disinfected frequently. (D135.2.w2)

Ensure there is an adequate personnel health programme in place. (P24.327.w4)

All cuts, scratches and abrasions should be treated immediately
with a disinfectant and
reported to the appropriate supervisor. (B363.2.w2,
D135.2.w2)

Individuals with open wounds should not have contact with either
wildlife casualties or chemical contaminants. (D135.2.w2)

Individuals should also avoid getting exhausted, as exhaustion may
lead to reduced immune system function and increase susceptibility to
disease. (B363.2.w2)

Anyone developing illness or symptoms such as respiratory discomfort,
dizziness, irritation of the skin or eyes, nausea or vomiting should
stop work and report their illness to their supervisor immediately. (D135.2.w2)

Anyone becoming ill should inform their doctor that they have been
working with birds and petroleum products. (P24.327.w4,
D135.2.w2)

Note: All personnel handling wildlife should be up-to-date in tetanus
immunisation due to the potential for puncture wounds. (D135.2.w2)

Stress and
fatigue are general hazards of oiled wildlife response. (D183.w8)

Working with
oiled wildlife in an oil spill situation is recognised to be highly
stressful.

Signs of depression reported by volunteers at oil spills include
sadness, fatigue, lethargy and isolation. (P14.6.w2)

Volunteers may develop lasting effects including "feelings of
anger, depression, difficulty in relating to others (perhaps to people
who weren't involved), feelings of stress and anxiety."
(P14.6.w2)

There is always more work to be done and it is important to ensure that
neither professional staff nor volunteers work excessively long hours
resulting in exhaustion.
(B363.2.w2, P14.6.w2)

An additional reason why individuals should avoid getting exhausted is
that exhaustion may
lead to reduced immune system function and therefore increase susceptibility to
disease. (B363.2.w2)

There is an emotional stress associated with the devastation of a
large, human-made disaster. (P14.6.w2)

There is emotional stress due to the inability of responders to save all
the casualties.

This stress is likely to be greater in situations where
large proportions of the oiled casualties die or require euthanasia and
may be relatively lower in responses in which a high proportion of the birds can
be saved.

When euthanasia is required, prompt decisions avoid personnel
suffering disappointment after putting in substantial effort of
care and perhaps developing emotional attachment to the casualty.
(P24.327.w4)

It may not be possible to alleviate stress associated with the
devastation of a large man-made disaster, however other stressors may be
minimised. (P14.6.w2)

Stress reduction and prevention of
exhaustion

New volunteers should be given an orientation in which they are
given information about the work they will do, the possible toxicity
risks are explained, they are told clearly who will be supervising
them and are encouraged to ask questions. (P14.6.w2)

All personnel, particularly those in positions of authority, should be
aware of signs of stress and should take appropriate action to relieve
stress. (D183.w8)

All personnel should have regular rest and meal breaks,
with adequate rest hours between shifts, and adequate days off, weekly. (B363.2.w2,
P14.6.w2)

It may be necessary to facilitate days off for any volunteers
who are feeling particularly overwhelmed or tired. (P14.6.w2)

Appropriate
personal protective equipment (PPE) should be available to protect against
toxic, physical and zoonotic hazards. Personnel should be trained in the
proper use and limitations of such equipment. (B335.14.w14,
D9,
D135.2.w2)

Protective clothing worn should be in accordance with risk
assessments, work procedures, and Material Safety Data Sheets for the
oil product (if known). (B363.2.w2)

Note: It is important to remember that protective clothing may give the
wearer a false sense of security. (B363.2.w2)

The requirements for PPE will vary depending on the work being
carried out:

For search and collection, as a minimum, oil impermeable
coveralls, rubber boots, hard hats and nitrile gloves are
required. (D183.w8)

For working with oiled animals in general, oil impermeable
coveralls, nitrile gloves and safety glasses are required. (D183.w8)

Overalls (coveralls) prevent contamination of street clothes
with animal feeds and wastes. These should be kept on site and laundered
after use, not taken home. (B335.14.w14)

Water-resistant clothing such as rain jackets and trousers keep
other clothing (e.g. overalls) dry while handling and washing
oiled wildlife, and when outside during bad weather, and also
prevent contamination with oil and faeces/urine/droppings. (B335.14.w14)

The Act also gives among the duties of the employer
"the provision of such information, instruction, training and supervision as is necessary to ensure, so far as is reasonably practicable, the health and safety at work of his
employees." (LUK27 - Health and Safety at Work Act 1974,
W558.Mar05.w1)

The Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 is supported
by various Regulations and by other statutory provisions, such as the
First Aid and Work Regulations 1981 and the Personal Protective
Equipment (Amendment) Regulations 1994. (D187)

COSHH (Control of Substances Hazardous to Health)
regulations must be followed. (D187)

Each local County Council has a Health and Safety
Executive (HSE) officer covering their area; contact can be made in
office hours via the HSE Information Centre (0541 545 500). (D134)

In the USA, Federal Occupational Safety and Health
Administration as well as State Departments of Labor requirements should
be followed. (P14.3.w12)